Shop Scotsman Ice Makers & Accessories
Shop by Category
Sinks with heavy-gauge stainless steel construction for maximum corrosion resistance, reinforced drain assemblies, and high-flow hardware designed to optimize wash-down processes. We provide equipment that meets institutional sanitation requirements, ensuring durability for continuous daily use in professional catering, restaurant, and facility maintenance workflows.
Commercial food pans and food storage containers maximize shelf life and kitchen organization through precision-fit sealing. Featuring NSF-certified polycarbonate containers and color-coded lid systems, these solutions are designed for crystal-clear inventory visibility and impact resistance in high-volume environments.
Ice machine heads produce ice in a range of styles and output levels for commercial use. Designed to pair with compatible ice bins or dispensers, these units are available in cube, flake, and nugget ice types. Options vary by daily production capacity and condenser type to match your setup and demand. Built for consistent ice production in busy environments.
Cutlery is essential for handling everyday prep tasks with accuracy and control, from breaking down proteins to chopping and slicing ingredients. Sharp, well-balanced knives help improve efficiency while reducing strain during repetitive work. A dependable selection keeps prep consistent and supports smooth kitchen operations.
Scotsman MC0530MAX-1 Ice Maker, Cube-...
Robot Coupe R2N CLR 3 qt. Combination...
Top Savings on Restaurant Equipment
Build Your Own Basket
Winco Spectrum EHDG-7R RollsRight Countertop Hot Dog Roller Grill | 18 Hot Dog Capacity
Grindmaster I-PRO 2E (2) 2.9 gal. Frozen Drink Machine w/Light Panel
Winco POP-8R Showtime Electric Countertop Popcorn Machine | 8 Oz. Kettle
Water Filtration
Top Restaurant Supply Brands
Blog
Scotsman Ice Types Guide: Choosing Between Nugget, Gourmet, Flake, and Cube Ice
 Choosing the Right Ice Type Starts Here Ice plays a key role in beverage quality, presentation, and overall use. The type of ice you choose can impact how quickly drinks cool, how they look, and how customers interact with them. Different ice types are also produced in different ways. Some are created in cycles, while others are produced continuously, which can affect output, performance, and how the ice works in daily service. Scotsman offers four primary ice types: Nugget ice Cube ice Gourmet ice Flake ice Each is designed for specific applications, from high-volume beverage service to food display and preservation. Understanding the differences can help you choose the right ice type and machine for your space. Nugget Ice Scotsman nugget ice has grown in popularity in recent years because of its soft, chewable texture and strong customer appeal. What it is Nugget ice is formed by compressing small flakes of ice into a compact shape. This gives it a softer texture than traditional cubes while still allowing it to hold its form. Scotsman introduced this style as The Original Chewable Ice® in 1981, and it has since become one of the most recognizable ice types in foodservice. Why operators choose it Nugget ice cools drinks quickly and absorbs flavor, making it a popular choice for fountain beverages, smoothies, iced coffee, and self-serve drink stations. Its chewable texture also makes it appealing beyond traditional beverage service. Nugget ice can be used in healthcare environments, therapeutic applications, and light food display where gentle cooling is needed. Best for Fountain beverages and soft drinks Smoothies and blended drinks Iced coffee and cold beverages Self-serve beverage stations Healthcare and therapeutic applications Explore options: Shop Scotsman Nugget Ice Machines  Cube Ice Scotsman cube ice is a traditional, solid ice form designed for a wide range of beverage applications. What it is Cube ice is available in both full cube and half cube options. This gives operators flexibility based on the type of drinks they serve, the pace of service, and the glassware being used. Full cube ice Full cube ice is larger and melts more slowly. This helps maintain drink quality by reducing dilution over time. It is commonly used for cocktails, mixed drinks, and beverages that are served over a longer period. Half cube ice Half cube ice is smaller and more versatile. It fits easily into different glass sizes, cools drinks quickly, and distributes well throughout the beverage. This makes half cube ice a strong choice for high-volume operations, carbonated beverages, soft drinks, and iced coffee. Why operators choose it Cube ice is one of the most widely used ice types in foodservice because it is durable, consistent, and versatile. It works well across restaurants, bars, hotels, convenience stores, and other beverage-focused operations. It can also be used for bagged ice or basic food display where structure is important. Best for Restaurants and bars Carbonated beverages and soft drinks Cocktails and mixed drinks Iced coffee and cold beverages High-volume beverage service Looking for versatility? Browse Scotsman Cube Ice Makers Nugget vs. Cube Ice: Which Should You Choose? Nugget and cube ice can both work well for beverage service, but they serve different needs. Choose nugget ice when texture and chewability matter. Its soft, chewable form works well for fountain drinks, iced coffee, smoothies, and self-serve beverage stations. Choose cube ice when structure, slower melt, and a more traditional presentation are priorities. Full cube and half cube ice are strong options for cocktails, mixed drinks, carbonated beverages, and high-volume service. Gourmet Ice Scotsman gourmet ice is designed for presentation-focused beverage service. What it is Gourmet ice is clear, dense, and slow melting. Its structure helps reduce dilution, making it a strong choice for drinks where appearance and consistency matter. Why operators choose it Gourmet ice is commonly used in bars, restaurants, and hospitality settings where beverages are served with a more refined presentation. Its clarity and uniform shape make it well-suited for cocktails, spirits, and other premium drinks. It can also improve the overall appearance of the beverage. Gourmet ice is also used in office breakrooms and smaller service environments where a consistent, high-quality ice appearance is preferred. Its non-stick characteristics can make it easier to scoop and handle compared to softer ice types. Best for Cocktails and premium beverages Bars and restaurants Office breakrooms and hospitality settings Presentation-focused drink service Upgrade your presentation: View Scotsman Gourmet Ice Machines Flake Ice Scotsman flake ice is soft, light, and moldable, making it ideal for applications that need consistent cooling and coverage. What it is Flake ice is formed in thin, flat pieces that can easily spread and conform to different surfaces. Why operators choose it Because of its shape and texture, flake ice provides fast, even cooling and helps maintain product freshness. It is commonly used in foodservice for seafood displays, produce cases, and salad bars, where maintaining appearance and temperature is important. Flake ice is also used in healthcare and industrial settings. Its soft, flexible form makes it suitable for therapeutic use and product preservation. Because it molds around items, it can help keep products evenly chilled without damaging them. Best for Seafood and meat displays Produce and salad bars Food preservation and cooling Healthcare and therapeutic applications  Keep displays fresh: Shop Scotsman Flake Ice Machines Comparing Ice Types Each ice type offers different benefits depending on how it is used. Understanding the key differences can help narrow down the right option for your space. Texture: Nugget and flake ice are softer and easier to chew or mold, while cube and gourmet ice are solid and hold their shape.  Melt Rate: Gourmet and full cube ice melt more slowly, helping reduce drink dilution. Nugget and flake ice cool quickly but tend to melt faster.  Application: Nugget and cube ice are commonly used for beverages, while flake ice is better suited for food display and preservation. Gourmet ice is typically used for presentation-focused drinks.  Production Method: Cube and gourmet ice are produced in cycles, while nugget and flake ice are produced continuously, which can impact overall output.  Volume and Use: Nugget and half cube ice are often used in high-volume beverage service, while gourmet ice is typically used in lower-volume, presentation-focused settings. Beyond Ice Type: What to Consider Next Choosing the right ice type is only the first step. It is also important to consider the type of machine that fits your space, production needs, and daily workflow. Scotsman offers a range of configurations, including: • Undercounter units• Countertop models• Ice and water dispensers• Modular ice machine and bin combinations The right machine depends on available space, production requirements, storage needs, and how the ice will be accessed throughout the day. Ready to choose your ice machine? Shop Scotsman ice makers today!
Read more
How to Clean a Popcorn Machine (Step-by-Step Guide)
This guide explains how to clean a commercial popcorn machine safely and effectively. Regular cleaning helps maintain product quality, sanitation, and equipment performance while preventing grease buildup that can lead to smoke or mechanical issues.Â
Read more
Outdoor Patio Seating Guide for Bars and Restaurants
Outdoor seating has become an important part of many bars and restaurants, offering additional guest space while creating a relaxed and inviting atmosphere. Whether you are expanding your current footprint or designing a patio for the first time, the right combination of furniture, layout, and comfort features plays a major role in how successful the space will be. Unlike indoor dining areas, outdoor patios must account for weather exposure, durability, traffic flow, and guest comfort in open environments. Choosing commercial-grade furniture and planning the layout carefully helps ensure your patio remains functional, comfortable, and visually appealing throughout the season. This guide outlines key considerations for designing outdoor seating areas for bars and restaurants, including furniture selection, layout planning, and equipment that can enhance the overall guest experience. Planning Your Outdoor Patio Space Before selecting furniture, it is important to evaluate how the patio will function within your overall service environment. A well-planned layout helps staff move efficiently while creating a comfortable experience for guests. Key planning considerations include: Available Space and Capacity Measure the usable area and determine how many guests you want to accommodate. Consider walking paths, service stations, and clearance between tables to avoid overcrowding. Traffic Flow Servers should be able to move easily between indoor and outdoor areas without obstacles. Clear pathways reduce delays and improve safety during busy service periods. Accessibility Ensure seating arrangements allow for accessibility compliance and comfortable movement for all guests. Shade and Weather Exposure Sun exposure, wind direction, and weather conditions influence furniture placement and comfort features. Planning for shade and protection early prevents adjustments later. Utilities and Service Needs If you plan to offer outdoor beverage service, heaters, or lighting, consider electrical access and equipment placement during the planning phase. Taking time to evaluate these factors helps create an outdoor space that supports both operational efficiency and guest satisfaction. Choosing Commercial Patio Furniture Furniture is the foundation of any outdoor seating area. Bars and restaurants require furniture designed specifically for commercial environments, where durability, stability, and ease of maintenance are essential. Commercial patio furniture is typically constructed from materials that resist moisture, UV exposure, and temperature changes while maintaining structural integrity under frequent use. Investing in quality pieces helps reduce replacement costs and ensures a consistent appearance over time. When selecting furniture, operators often consider: Durability and weather resistance Ease of cleaning and maintenance Comfort for extended seating periods Weight and stability in outdoor conditions Storage flexibility during off-season months Overall aesthetic that matches the brand or concept  Consistency in furniture quality can have a bigger impact on guest experience than many operators expect. Commercial-grade patio furniture that is durable, easy to clean, and designed for outdoor conditions helps maintain both appearance and operational efficiency throughout the season. Ingrid Gardner, CFSP  Outdoor Patio Chairs and Seating Options Seating plays a central role in guest comfort and overall patio functionality. The type of chairs you select should align with your service style, space limitations, and expected traffic volume. Common seating options include: Dining Chairs Standard outdoor dining chairs are ideal for table service environments and can be arranged in various layouts depending on your capacity needs. Stackable Chairs Stackable seating provides flexibility for operators who need to store furniture during weather changes or seasonal transitions. These chairs are also useful for event spaces or patios with variable layouts. Lightweight vs. Heavy Frames Lighter chairs are easier for staff to move and rearrange, while heavier frames may offer additional stability in windy environments. The right balance depends on your location and usage patterns. Bar-Height Seating and Outdoor Bar Stools Bar-height seating can add variety to your patio layout while creating a more social and casual atmosphere. High-top tables and stools are especially popular in bar environments, breweries, and rooftop patios where guests may gather for drinks rather than full meals. Bar stools designed for outdoor use typically feature weather-resistant materials and reinforced frames to withstand frequent movement and exposure. Selecting stools with footrests and supportive seating surfaces can improve comfort during longer visits. Operators often incorporate bar-height seating: Along railings or perimeter edges Near outdoor beverage stations or bars In lounge-style sections for social gatherings To maximize seating capacity in smaller areas Outdoor Tables and Table Tops Tables serve as the functional centerpiece of patio dining areas. Selecting the right size, shape, and materials helps ensure durability while supporting efficient service. Common considerations include: Table Size and Configuration Two-top, four-top, and communal tables allow flexibility depending on your guest mix and service style. Table Materials Commercial outdoor tables are often constructed from metal, resin, laminate, or composite materials designed to withstand weather exposure. Each material offers different advantages depending on your environment, budget, and maintenance preferences. Metal (Steel or Aluminum) Metal tables provide strong structural support and are widely used in commercial settings for their stability and long service life. Powder-coated or treated finishes help protect against corrosion and outdoor conditions. Heavier metal tables can offer improved stability in windy environments, though they may be more difficult for staff to move compared to lighter materials. Resin and Polymer Materials Resin and molded polymer tables resist moisture, stains, and fading while requiring minimal upkeep. These materials are often cost-effective and perform well in high-traffic environments. However, some resin products may show cosmetic wear over time with heavy commercial use compared to metal or laminate surfaces. Replaceable Table Tops Some systems allow table tops to be replaced independently from bases, extending the lifespan of your investment while allowing design updates over time. Lounge Seating and Outdoor Chaise Options Some patios benefit from more relaxed seating areas that encourage guests to stay longer and create a different atmosphere from traditional dining sections. Lounge-style furniture can be especially effective for rooftop bars, poolside service, breweries, or cocktail-focused concepts. Outdoor chaise lounges and casual seating areas allow operators to create designated spaces for guests who may not be ordering full meals but still contribute to beverage sales and overall traffic. Lounge seating works well for: Rooftop or elevated patio environments Poolside or resort-style service areas Cocktail and social gathering zones Waiting or overflow seating during busy periods Durable construction and weather-resistant materials are especially important for lounge furniture since these pieces are often exposed to the sun for extended periods. Many bars and restaurants look for features such as UV-resistant construction, reinforced commercial-grade resin frames, or durable weather-resistant resin materials that help resist fading, cracking, and moisture damage while holding up to frequent outdoor use. Shade Solutions: Umbrellas and Coverage Providing shade is one of the most important factors for guest comfort in outdoor dining environments. Direct sunlight can quickly reduce how long customers are willing to remain seated, especially during warmer months. Umbrellas offer a flexible and cost-effective way to improve comfort without permanent construction. Commercial-grade umbrellas are designed to withstand wind exposure, frequent repositioning, and extended outdoor use. Key considerations when selecting umbrellas include: Coverage area relative to table size Stability and base weight Ease of opening and closing mechanisms Wind resistance and durability UV protection for guests Strategic placement of umbrellas can also help define seating zones and improve the visual appeal of the patio. Extending the Season with Patio Heaters Outdoor dining does not have to end when temperatures drop. Patio heaters allow bars and restaurants to extend seating use into cooler seasons, increasing revenue opportunities and maximizing the value of outdoor space. Heaters are especially useful for: Early spring and late fall service Evening dining when temperatures decline Regions with variable seasonal weather Rooftop or open-air environments Commercial patio heaters are designed to provide consistent heat output across seating areas while maintaining safety and durability in outdoor conditions. 6 Layout Tips for Your Restaurant Patio A well-designed patio supports both guest comfort and staff efficiency. Poor layouts can create bottlenecks, slow service, and increase strain on employees during busy periods. Helpful layout strategies include: Maintain clear walking paths between tables Position service stations near high-traffic seating areas Allow enough space for chairs to move without blocking aisles Separate dining and lounge zones when possible Place bar-height seating along edges to maximize capacity Keep entrances and exits unobstructed Thoughtful furniture placement improves workflow while creating a more comfortable experience for guests.  When planning an outdoor patio, think about how servers will move between indoor and outdoor service areas during peak hours. Clear pathways, efficient table spacing, and accessible service points help reduce congestion and improve service speed. Ingrid Gardner, CFSP  Durability and Maintenance Considerations Outdoor furniture experiences more wear than indoor seating due to weather exposure, movement, and environmental conditions. Choosing commercial-grade materials helps reduce maintenance needs and extend product lifespan. Routine care also plays a role in maintaining appearance and performance. Simple maintenance practices include: Cleaning surfaces regularly to remove dirt and debris Storing or covering furniture during severe weather Inspecting hardware and connections periodically Drying cushions and surfaces after rain exposure Stacking or storing furniture during off-season months Like any commercial equipment, proper maintenance helps ensure long-term reliability and consistent appearance. Creating an Outdoor Patio That Works for Your Business Outdoor patios provide bars and restaurants with valuable opportunities to expand seating capacity and enhance the guest experience. Selecting durable furniture, planning efficient layouts, and incorporating comfort features such as shade and heating can help operators create inviting outdoor environments that support both service efficiency and customer satisfaction. Whether you are building a new patio or upgrading an existing space, choosing commercial-grade furniture designed for outdoor use helps ensure long-term performance and flexibility. Exploring available patio furniture options can help you find solutions that align with your space, concept, and operational needs.Â
Read more
